According to official reports, the repatriation of illegal foreign nationals, primarily Afghans, is underway in a secure and dignified manner, with 1634 individuals returning on Sunday, bringing the total number of repatriated individuals to 4,35,152.
The apex committee of the National Action Plan, chaired by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, had set a deadline on October 3 for all foreign nationals residing illegally in Pakistan to leave voluntarily by October 31 or face deportation. The government is actively facilitating the repatriation process for illegal Afghans at the Torkham and Chaman borders.
Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti addressed the Senate, emphasizing a humane approach in the repatriation process. He stated, “Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has given very clear instructions that there should be no manhandling of illegal immigrants during the repatriation process.” Bugti assured that any border mismanagement would be addressed, welcoming suggestions from political leadership.
Bugti clarified, “No Afghan refugee having legal documents has been even touched.”
In response to the urgent situation faced by the 5,00,000 individuals who have returned to Afghanistan and are in critical need of food, shelter, and employment during the winter, various organizations, including the International Rescue Committee, Danish Refugee Council, Norwegian Refugee Council, Islamic Relief Worldwide, CARE, and Intersos, are urging the international community to enhance support for the returning families.
The challenging circumstances faced by some repatriated immigrants have prompted calls for increased attention from the interim government. Mohammad Nayeem, a refugee, highlighted financial constraints, stating, “They have helped us in Torkham with 10,000 Afghanis, and my family is huge, and the money will not even cover my expenses for a week.” Another refugee, Dawood, appealed for job opportunities for Afghan youth to prevent further migration.